Command Unit
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 37
Likes: 3
GL450, E350 Cabriolet
Command Unit
Has anyone replaced their Command center (radio, Nav, etc.) with an aftermarket product? Like Kenwood, Alpine, Sony, Panasonic, etc.? If so, what has been your experience? The LCD screen on my unit is very faded and every effort has failed to correct this issue. The dealer has quoted me over $7K to replace the system but that doesn't sound very reasonable. Used units can be had on eBay for $700-1100 but there are no guarantees it would be any better. Top of the line Kenwood is $2k installed with all the necessary extras. It has a larger, brighter screen and all the functions of my current system.
Member
Joined: Jun 2009
Posts: 121
Likes: 4
09 GL450
Has anyone replaced their Command center (radio, Nav, etc.) with an aftermarket product? Like Kenwood, Alpine, Sony, Panasonic, etc.? If so, what has been your experience? The LCD screen on my unit is very faded and every effort has failed to correct this issue. The dealer has quoted me over $7K to replace the system but that doesn't sound very reasonable. Used units can be had on eBay for $700-1100 but there are no guarantees it would be any better. Top of the line Kenwood is $2k installed with all the necessary extras. It has a larger, brighter screen and all the functions of my current system.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 37
Likes: 3
GL450, E350 Cabriolet
$7K was for a brand new unit. They did say they would install a used one if I bought it elsewhere and would pair it. About 1-1 1/2 hours of labor. Cheaper than the new one and even less costly than the Kenwood system.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2018
Posts: 37
Likes: 3
GL450, E350 Cabriolet
Thank you, but that's not necessary. My local dealer said they could get me a refurbished unit installed and paired for around $3k. They sure are proud of their products. I think the Germans engineer some of the best autos on the road but their electronics and technology leaves much to be desired.
